Kelly Clark’s appreciation for those who help others is never-ending.

Three years ago yesterday, the Bothell resident was involved in a serious automobile accident. Almost a year later, she was out and about, visiting with family members, friends and an emergency medical service (EMS) first-responder at Sparta’s Pizza, thanking everyone for their support.

I was honored to be there that day, and was welcomed into the fold even though I was a stranger to most of the crowd. It was a celebration of life — and everyone can take part.

I’ll admit, I was burned out and sunburned from covering a lengthy state track-and-field meet the day before, but that was no excuse not to spend part of my Sunday with Clark and her crew. It was an inspiring day and I think about it often, especially around this time of year.

Yesterday, Clark celebrated the second consecutive year of holding her National Thank You Day. Local Girl Scouts created thank-you cards last week at Maywood Hills Elementary and were set to deliver them to police and fire stations on the big day.

“It’s a day to honor first-responders and show them just how grateful we are that they have dedicated themselves to face up to what the rest of us turn away or run away from,” she said. “They protect and save lives in situations that are dangerous and gut-wrenching. Police, fire, EMS and search and rescue deserve a lot of thanks for being who they are and for doing what they do.”

Clark is proud to say that National Thank You Day activities are happening in New York, Florida, California and Washington and many states in between.

“And it started right here in Bothell,” Clark noted.

‘Spring for the Arts’

Last Friday’s Northshore Performing Arts Center Foundation’s “Spring for the Arts” benefit luncheon was another inspiring event. (It started very serious and then turned very positive.)

Keynote speaker Jim Kelly, executive director of 4Culture (King County’s cultural services agency), spoke of nonprofits — like the local arts foundation — needing extra support during these hard economic times. He urged the people attending the event in Cascadia Community College’s Mobius Hall to “speak up collectively with your elected officials” to help keep the arts at the forefront of their discussions. “Let’s ensure that there’s a spot at the table for all of us,” he added.

Foundation President Jack Cornwall, Vice President Suzette Hart and Cascadia President Emeritus Dr. William Christopher all shared stories about being involved with the arts, from playing instruments in the school band to enjoying live theater.

For youngsters, Hart said that the arts let’s them express their individual talents and exposes them to other countries’ cultures.

Cornwall’s end note hit a high note with myself and the crowd (many of whom were writing checks to the foundation): “The arts should be a part of our lives.”